Author: Abigail Miller

A bunch of yellow flowers and a clear blue sky in the MSU campus gardens.

August Events Round-Up

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August is here, and summer is heating up! If you and your family are looking for activities to make the most of this summer, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these upcoming events for you and your family, and use the links below to learn more and register where required.

Campus Events

August 9 – Garden Edition: Deep-Rooted with Beal Botanical Garden: Join Applied Ethnobotanist and Education Director of the Beal Botanical Gardens, Maeve Bassett, to learn about the social, historical, and political narratives within plants in the garden and artwork in the MSU Broad Art Collection.

August 13 – Beal Botanical Garden Tour: Forest Bathing: Join Beal Community and Sustainability Coordinator, Angelica Bajos, at the Beal Botanical Garden for a summertime rest. Take time to connect with the garden and indulge your wellbeing through forest bathing invitations.

August 16 – Music and the Garden: The MSU College of Music and Beal Botanical Garden invite you to this year’s Music and the Garden series, an outdoor celebration of music, nature, and community. Hands-on activities take place prior to a performance by an MSU College of Music student ensemble, and guests are welcome to bring chairs or blankets. August features Tayovan Trio.

Open August 22 – We Are This Land: Meditations on the Great American Experiment: Visit this new large-scale group exhibition that occupies nearly all the main galleries at the MSU Broad Art Museum. The exhibition is organized around five guiding topics: civics, history, family and kinship, map-making, and care for the environment. This approach creates a forum for open dialogue and engagement while offering critical perspectives on our nation’s place within broader historical timelines and the wider world.

August 26 – Meet the Spartans: Visit Spartan Stadium this August for an event all things MSU!  Here you will find opportunities to take photos with Head Coach Pat Fitzgerald, get team autographs, meet the Michigan State Dance and Cheer teams and enjoy opportunities to take photos with Sparty and Zeke throughout the evening!

Learning Opportunities 

August 6 – TIAA: Live long and prosper: Your guide to understanding longevity: This TIAA webinar teaches you how to think about your longevity across financial, physical, mental and social dimensions; longevity’s impacts on financial caregiving, and how having longevity literacy can impact your retirement planning. 

August 12 – Women Talk Money: All about the Roth: Choosing an IRA can help shape your tax picture today and in retirement. But between Roth, traditional, rollovers, and conversions, navigating your options can feel like a lot. This webinar from Fidelity is here to break it all down to help you feel confident in how your IRA (or IRAs) fit into your plan.

August 12 – Everything DiSC: Productive Conflict: This in-person course provides learners with techniques to improve self-awareness around conflict behaviors. Apply DiSC assessment results to better understand our personal responses in conflict, and teach participants how to curb destructive thoughts and behaviors so that conflict can become more productive, improving workplace results and relationships. Pre-work will be sent and must be completed before the course begins. 

August 12 – Identify and Maximize Your Strengths, Part 2: Unlock the Full 34: Exploring your CliftonStrengths results does not have to end with the top 5 talents. Here, you will Identify individual talents utilizing the CliftonStrengths Full 34 Report, evaluate the impact of identified talents on the individual, the work and relationships, and determine how to further develop natural talents into strengths utilizing the tools provided. NOTE: This session is designed exclusively for those who have previously attended an offering of Identify and Maximize Your Strengths through OPD. 

August 13 – Roadmap to Retirement: If you are an MSU employee, and you have decided to retire within a year or two, this half-day workshop covers a range of topics critical to your successful retirement.

August 18 – Take control of your financial life: 5 steps to save money and manage debt: This TIAA webinar demonstrates how you can effectively set goals, balance your budget, and use debt wisely. 

August 20 – A closer look at the costs of long-term care: In this two-part Fidelity webinar on health care costs in retirement, learn more about strategies to financially prepare for long-term care.

August 20 – The Spartan Experience: This training is grounded in real MSU examples, team activities, and self-reflection. Whether you work in student services, facilities, finance, or academic support, you’ll walk away with tangible strategies to elevate your service mindset and make a positive impact, one interaction at a time.

August 20 – Creating and Sustaining a Positive Workplace: This in-person course provides humorous insight into the seven habits of negativity, including tips to stop gossip, techniques for getting along with others, and strategies to reap the many benefits of a positive and engaged workforce.

August 25 – SET for Success Series Part 2: Ergonomics: Regardless of your role and daily job tasks at MSU, everyone benefits from an ergonomically sound workplace. This zoom session will explore the basics of ergonomics, injury prevention, how to set up your workstation, standing desk use, and stretches/exercises to help reduce the risk of work-related pain. The recommendations in the class can be applied in your on-campus or home office.

Family-Friendly Events

Various Dates in August  – Lansing Lugnuts Home Game: Head to Jackson Field and “Go Nuts” cheering on the Lansing Lugnuts, where every game brings a fun and lively atmosphere. There’s always something exciting happening at the ballpark for fans of all ages.

August 8 – Young Eagle Rally (Free Airplane Rides for Kids): Young Eagles Aviation Day at the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Chapter 55, will offer free airplane rides for kids 8-17. A number of pilot volunteers will be there to give these rides and introduce the kids to the world of aviation and inspire them to explore careers in the field. Note: All event days are weather permitting. 

Recurring Fridays and Saturdays – Toddler Time at Launch Lansing: Visit Launch Lansing Trampoline Park during select times to enjoy children’s music, visits from Joey the kangaroo, and a special toddler section with your little ones. 

Greater Lansing Area Events 

August 3 – 8 – Ingham County Fair: The 172nd Ingham County Fair is here! Visit the fairgrounds for the best family friendly entertainment including rides, games, and food for all! 

August 6 and 20 – East Lansing Moonlight Film Festival: The Moonlight Film Festival is back for the 2026 season! Movies are shown at Valley Court Park and start at dusk (approximately 9 p.m. in August). This month’s movies are Labrynth and Super Mario Galaxy.

August 6, 1, and 20 – Summer Concerts on the Square: Summer is wrapping up, and now is the chance to attend the last few Summer Concerts on the Square in Charlotte! New bands will play recurring weekly on Thursdays until August 20. 

August 8 and 22 – Majestic Morning Yoga: Join the Lansing Free Yoga Project and learn from yoga instructors from across Lansing at the Fish Ladder Music Park as they lead you in an inspirational yoga practice! This beginner focused class is designed to get you moving in the morning. 

August 15 – Old Town ArtFeast: Mark your calendar and get ready for a day filled with creativity, community, and culinary delights at Old Town ArtFeast! This beloved event brings together two of life’s greatest joys- stunning art and delicious food- right in the heart of one of Lansing’s most vibrant neighborhoods. 

Recurring Tuesdays – DeWitt Farmers Market: The 2026 Downtown DeWitt Farmer’s Market is being held every Tuesday until October! Here you will find  the freshest produce, locally farmed meats, fresh eggs, delicious baked goods, and locally produced foods. 

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods. 

Saturdays in July – Meridian Farmers’Market: The summer schedule is here for the Meridian Farmers Market! Stop by every Saturday this month for farm-fresh ingredients, specialty foods, handmade crafts and more.

Recurring Wednesdays – The Allen Farmer’s Market: Visit the Allen Farmers Market in Lansing for seasonal produce, artisan baked goods, gluten-free baked goods, pasture raised eggs, dry beans, fresh, delectable cheeses, hot and ready-to-eat foods, local meat and fish and fun activities. 

Looking to cool off from the hot August sun? Check out these nearby swimming pools and lakes to dive into summer! 

Apply for the Child Care Assistant job posting within the College of Social Sciences by July 28.

Job of the Week: Child Care Assistant

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This week’s featured job is a Child Care Assistant for the College of Social Sciences (job posting 1145733). If you are interested in working with children at the MSU Child Development Laboratory within the Department of Human Development and Family Studies and support the Head Teacher, this may be the position for you.

The MSU Child Development Laboratories (CDL) provide high-quality early childhood education for children from birth to age five while serving as a teaching and learning site for MSU students. Through active, child-centered learning and strong family partnerships, the NAEYC-accredited program supports children’s growth and prepares future early childhood educators.

In this role, you will support the Head Teacher in order to provide high-quality early care and education in a classroom setting. You will implement planned activities and participate in the assessment of children. Additionally, you will work closely with families while maintaining professional conduct per the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Code of Ethical Conduct. Find a complete list of responsibilities in the job posting.

This position requires knowledge normally acquired by completing one year of college, technical, vocational, or trade school and six months to one year of work experience in providing childcare or an equivalent combination of education and experience. The NAEYC requires a minimum of a CDA or 12 college credits in early childhood education, child development, elementary education or early childhood special education. Preferred qualifications include a degree in early childhood education, child development, elementary or special education. Additionally, it is desired that you have certification in infant, child, and adult CPR and first aid, and experience caring for children from birth to age three. Find a complete list of required and desired qualifications in the job posting.

Learn more about the MSU Child Development Laboratories. To learn more or apply for this position, please visit the MSU Careers Website. Applications require a cover letter, resume, 3 letters of recommendation, 3 references, and should be submitted by July 28.

On the left, there is a green text box with a dotted Spartan helmet and the words "Service Manager IV, Unit: Infrastructure Planning and Facilities Application Deadline: August 4". On the right there is a photo of Beaumont tower from the ground, looking upward.

Job of the Week: Service Manager IV

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This week’s featured job is a Service Manager IV with Infrastructure Planning and Facilities (job posting 1146208). If you are interested in operations leadership, team development, and helping maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming campus environment, this may be the position for you.

MSU Infrastructure Planning and Facilities (IPF) plans, builds, maintains, and beautifies MSU’s physical campus environment in support of its education, research, and outreach missions. The unit’s team of over 1,000 professionals keeps MSU running 24/7/365 by meeting the infrastructure needs and providing expert analysis to support long-term planning goals. Together, they ensure that MSU’s campus remains a safe and inspiring place to work, learn, and grow. 

In this position, you will lead IPF’s Custodial Services department, which oversees campus custodial operations, pest control, and the IPF Campus Events Office. Responsibilities include managing business operations, budgets, staffing, and contracts while ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. You will recruit, develop, and mentor supervisory staff, lead customer engagement initiatives, oversee operational planning, monitor performance through key metrics, and help drive continuous improvement across campus services. The role also includes participating in emergency response efforts, supporting capital renewal planning, and fostering strong partnerships with campus stakeholders and external vendors. Find a complete list of responsibilities in the job posting.

This position requires a degree in business, finance, human resources, or a related field, along with five to eight years of progressively responsible experience supervising custodial or related operational activities, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Preferred qualifications include experience in higher education or research environments, experience managing pest control operations, and strong leadership, problem-solving, technical, and communication skills with a focus on innovation and continuous improvement. Find a complete list of required and desired qualifications in the job posting.

Learn more about Infrastructure Planning and Facilities. To learn more or apply for this position, please visit the MSU Careers website. Applications require a current resume detailing education and experience, as well as a cover letter expressing interest and qualifications, and should be submitted by August 4.

On the right, there's the Sparty Statue with the view looking up at an angle. To the left, there's the JOTW details for the Communications Manager II for Eli Broad College of Business, applications due July 14.

Job of the Week: Communications Manager II

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This week’s featured job is a Communications Manager II for the Eli Broad College of Business (job posting 1144268). If you are interested in developing strategic communications, creating engaging content, and helping elevate the college’s reputation through storytelling and media relations, this may be the role for you.

The Eli Broad College of Business proudly develops global business leaders through collaboration, innovative research, and meaningful community engagement. Guided by its vision, Broad Spartans work hard, work smart, and work together to positively transform organizations and society.

In this position, you will develop and execute strategic communications plans that align with the college’s priorities while increasing visibility, engagement, and reputation. Responsibilities include creating and managing content for the college’s newsroom, newsletters, social media channels, and external media outlets, leading public relations initiatives, coordinating communications campaigns, and supporting content management and communication platforms. You will also collaborate with University Communications, University Advancement, and the MSU Alumni Office, maintain vendor relationships, manage projects and workflows, ensure compliance with university branding and accessibility standards, and supervise student employees. Find a complete list of responsibilities in the job posting.

This position requires a degree in journalism, telecommunications, marketing, advertising, public relations, or a related field, along with three to five years of progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, marketing, media relations, or a related area. Preferred qualifications include experience with social media platforms and management tools, WordPress, AP style, project management software such as Asana, strong interpersonal and communication skills, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to lead projects from concept to completion. Find a complete list of required and desired qualifications in the job posting.

Learn more about the Eli Broad College of Business. To learn more or apply for this position, please visit the MSU Careers Website. Applications should be submitted by July 21.

Unplugged: Turn Off Notifications and Turn Up the Summer Fun!

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As we reach the heat of the summer, there is no better time to take a vacation or staycation. Taking time away from work has many health benefits including improving your connection to yourself and loved ones and resetting from or avoiding burnout.

The Benefits of Taking a Vacation

Vacationing and taking time away from your job promotes a long, healthy life and has tremendous benefits to your mind. Taking a break from routine in fun and different ways can have the same benefits as consistent meditation exercises and help you build connections with not only your loved ones but yourself, too. In addition, taking a vacation has been scientifically proven to boost brain power. Taking time off from learning, working and gaining new information every day allows your brain to consolidate existing knowledge, resulting in improved learning after vacation.

The benefits go beyond just your mind — they affect your body too. Through reduced stress, vacations can improve heart health and decrease the chances of metabolic diseases or conditions. Vacation time also improves sleep as poor sleep habits can be broken when sleeping in a new place. Coming home after vacation feels like sleeping in another new place, allowing those improved habits to continue.

Using vacation time is one of the best ways to reset from or avoid burnout. Learning the signs and how to work toward health is a positive way to promote workplace well-being.

Before Going on Vacation

To take full advantage of these benefits, you should consider fully unplugging from work — those emails and phone calls won’t go anywhere.

Before you head to the airport or hit the road, set up automatic email replies with your out-of-office details including when you will be back, who to contact in the meantime, and how to contact you in case of an emergency. If you use a shared calendar with your team, add your out-of-office dates as early as possible and notify your team verbally and/or by email. If you have ongoing projects, consider asking a coworker, supervisor, or team member to check up on them while you are away and plan to share updates when you return. If possible, leave work-related things at home or at the office to prevent the temptation to focus on work. Finally, prepare for the day you return from work before you leave by keeping your schedule as clear as you reasonably can on your first day back.

Returning from Vacation

Returning to work can often be stressful and sometimes undo the rest you achieved on vacation. To avoid getting immediately burned out, take time to ease back into your work routine. Try to avoid scheduling several meetings on your first day back and try not to set or meet big deadlines during your first week back in the office. The more time you spend away, the more time you should give yourself to get back to your normal work pace and routine.

In addition to easing into your normal work routine, it’s important to unplug from work at the end of each day. It’s easy to get burned out if you are mentally on the clock 24/7, answering emails and catching up during nights and weekends. You can use Microsoft Teams, Outlook, Google Calendar and other work team services to set out-of-office messages at the end of your workday. Finally, avoid stress by taking the necessary steps to be productive and engaged as shared in this earlier post about avoiding and reducing burnout.

All these tips and more are available through these links:

Job of The Week: Executive Secretary II

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This week’s featured job is an Executive Secretary II for the College of Human Medicine (job posting 1142812). If you are interested in providing high-level administrative support, coordinating academic programs, and collaborating with faculty and healthcare partners across the state, this may be the role for you.

The College of Human Medicine is dedicated to educating exemplary physicians, discovering new knowledge, and providing service both at home and abroad. By providing outstanding care and promoting the inclusion and needs of all people, the College of Human Medicine fosters an environment that enhances its community.

In this position, you will provide executive-level administrative support to multiple department chairs, manage calendars and meetings, coordinate travel, prepare correspondence and reports, and track important action items. You will also coordinate specialty-specific medical student electives across eight community campuses by creating student schedules, preparing letters of recommendation, approving off-campus electives, and submitting grades. Additional responsibilities include serving as a liaison between Henry Ford Health, College of Human Medicine Human Resources, faculty, staff, and students, coordinating faculty appointments and annual reviews, processing invoices and contracts, and organizing faculty meetings, committee meetings, and executive events. Find a complete list of responsibilities in the job posting.

This position requires a high school education or equivalent and five to eight years of related work experience. Preferred qualifications include experience working in a laboratory environment with safety and security measures, a collaborative approach, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and strong written and verbal communication skills. Find a complete list of required and preferred qualifications in the job posting.

Learn more about the College of Human Medicine. To learn more or apply for this position, please visit the MSU Careers Website. Applications require a resume and cover letter and should be submitted by July 7.

July Events Round-Up

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July is here, and summer is heating up! If you and your family are looking for activities to make the most of this summer, you’ve come to the right place. Check out these upcoming events for you and your family, and use the links below to learn more and register where required.

Campus Events

Wednesdays in July – MSU Summer Carillon Concert Series: Bring a picnic, chair, or blanket to Beaumont Tower to experience musical talent in one of the most beautiful locations on MSU’s campus! This series is open to the public, and will go through the first week of August.

Most Wednesdays in July –  Move in the Garden:  Need a midday recharge? This free outdoor movement program combines stretching, strengthening, flow, and relaxation movements to support overall mobility. Classes meet in the Beal Botanical Garden, and you can meet your instructor by the pond. Class will not be held on July 1, 2026.

July 5, 12, 19 and 26 – Abrams Planetarium Family Show: Under the Weather: Visit the Abrams Planetarium this July to join The Zula Patrol on an adventure through space as they collect weather samples and search for their missing friend, Gorga, and learn fascinating facts about weather on Earth and beyond! 

July 9 – Beal Botanical Garden Tour: Botany by Bethany: Join Head Horticulturalist and avid plant lover, Bethany Troy to learn about her favorite plants at Beal, covering her tips and tricks of the trade for healthy vibrant plants. 

July 11 – Chill Out with Art: If you are looking for a fun and relaxing summer event, come to the MSU Broad Art Museum for their “Chill Out with Art” event. Come explore exhibitions, explore your artistic side, and celebrate art, food, and community.

July 22 – Beal Footprints: Marvelous Malvaceae (Mallows): Meet at the garden pond and join Beal Head Horticulturist, Bethany Troy, on a tour of plants in the mallow family. Learn about care, uses, and how to identify plants in this diverse and surprising plant family. 

Learning Opportunities 

Fridays in July – Spartan Legacies Retirement Transition Program: Starting July 10, MSU’s free virtual Spartan Legacies retirement transition program will be offered every Friday through August 14. Led by Dr. Darryl Steele, the six-week discussion series helps employees and recent retirees navigate the emotional, social, and practical aspects of retirement. Questions can be directed to eap@msu.edu.

Available in July – SPARTANfit Summer Deal: SPARTANfit is celebrating summer with a limited time offer for MSU faculty, staff, and their partners. From June 1 to July 31, these Spartans can receive a Comprehensive Fitness Assessment for only $20 (50% off). These supportive assessments offer a snapshot of one’s physical health through resting and exercising tests, personalized fitness profiles, and support with goal setting. Book your fitness assessment in Microsoft Bookings no later than July 31 to score this deal. 

July 7 – Investing for Beginners: Start Your Wealth Journey:  Starting your career can be both very exciting and overwhelming. In this webinar, you will learn what to look for in job-related benefits packages, how short-term spending plans support long-term goals, the importance of building an emergency fund, and more. 

July 9 – Quarterly Economic and Market Update: Hear from TIAA’s experts in the Wealth Chief Investment Office about key drivers of the markets and economy that are impacting investors. 

July 9 – Managing Meetings: This in-person course is designed to help you plan and lead more effective, professional meetings in today’s fast-paced workplace. Here, you will learn how to reduce unproductive meetings, improve coordination and follow-through, and strengthen team productivity and engagement. 

July 9 – Fidelity Webinar: Making Early Retirement a Reality: Join the Insights from Fidelity Wealth Management team on July 9 to explore the key financial, social, and emotional aspects of early retirement. Learn how to evaluate your savings, plan for healthcare before Medicare, prepare for unexpected life changes, and build a fulfilling retirement lifestyle.

July 16 – Fidelity Webinar: Starting Small: How To Start Investing for the Price of a Coffee: Discover simple ways to start investing with just a few dollars. Learn about Fidelity account options, beginner-friendly investment strategies, and tools that can help you research investments and place trades as you build your portfolio.

July 22 – Steps to help secure your income in retirement: A mid career check-in: Take stock of where you are at this critical checkpoint and use retirement-saving strategies to better balance competing financial priorities. 

July 22 – Introduction to Process Mapping: This course introduces the fundamentals of process improvement, helping learners build the knowledge and confidence to get started. Participants will learn key terminology, process mapping basics, best practices for success, and how to create a process map.

July 23 – Promapp, Interactive Process Creation: This course builds on the foundations of process mapping, helping learners create and manage processes in Nintex Promapp. Participants will also learn process standards and writing best practices for developing clear, consistent, and engaging documentation. 

July 29 and 30 – Spartan Excellence Learning Series: This two day series equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to improve processes, strengthen accountability, and build a culture of continuous improvement. Grounded in the principles of Operational Excellence, the program emphasizes aligning improvements with MSU’s mission, values, and the 2030 Strategic Plan.  

July 30 – Grammar Refresher: This in-person course is here to help you improve your grammar and usage skills to communicate more clearly and professionally. Here, you will learn how to avoid common errors, use pronouns and verb forms correctly, and apply punctuation with confidence.

Family-Friendly Events

July 7 and 8 – Zoo Days at Potter Park: Don’t miss this special Zoo Days promotion at Potter Park Zoo, where admission is just $2 and parking is free for visitors from any county. Enjoy animal encounters, family-friendly character meet-and-greets, hands-on activities, and more while making summer memories with your family and friends.

July 10, 17, and 24 – Family Art Studio Days at the Broad Art Museum: Family Art Studio is a free drop-in art experience held every Friday this summer, inviting families to create, explore, and experiment together. Enjoy hands-on art stations and creative activities in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Greater Lansing Area Events 

Wednesdays in June – Meridian Township Summer Concert Series: Soak in the warm summer nights and visit Marketplace on the Green for the Meridian Township Summer Concert Series! Visit the website to see who is playing and when, every Wednesday in July. 

Various Dates in July – Lansing Lugnuts Home Game: Head to Jackson Field and “Go Nuts” cheering on the Lansing Lugnuts, where every game brings a fun and lively atmosphere. There’s always something exciting happening at the ballpark for fans of all ages.

July 3 – City of Lansing Fourth of July Parade: Visit Downtown Lansing for a day of Independence Day festivities featuring the Independence Day Parade, Concert on the Capitol Steps, Block Party at Lugnuts Stadium, and a patriotic concert at Adado Riverfront Park. The celebration concludes with a spectacular fireworks display.

July 10, 11, & 12 – Capital City Comic Con: Capital City Comic Con is a three-day celebration of comics, collectibles, cosplay, gaming, and pop culture. Join fellow fans in downtown Lansing for panels, family activities, special events, and more.

Recurring Tuesdays – DeWitt Farmers Market: The 2026 Downtown DeWitt Farmer’s Market is being held every Tuesday until October! Here you will find  the freshest produce, locally farmed meats, fresh eggs, delicious baked goods, and locally produced foods. 

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: Visit the Delhi Township Fire Department for one of Michigan’s premiere indoor farmers markets. The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods. 

Saturdays in July – Meridian Farmers’Market: The summer schedule is here for the Meridian Farmers Market! Stop by every Saturday this month for farm-fresh ingredients, specialty foods, handmade crafts and more.

Recurring Wednesdays – The Allen Farmer’s Market: Visit the Allen Farmers Market in Lansing for seasonal produce, artisan baked goods, gluten-free baked goods, pasture raised eggs, dry beans, fresh, delectable cheeses, hot and ready-to-eat foods, local meat and fish and fun activities. 

Looking to cool off from the hot July sun? Check out these nearby swimming pools and lakes to dive into summer! 

June Events Round-Up

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Summer is right around the corner, which means it is time for June events! This month holds many virtual and in-person opportunities in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out to celebrate the start of the new season. Click the links below to explore future events and register if required.

Pride Month Events:

June 5 and 6 – Kalamazoo Pride 2026: All proceeds from Kalamazoo Pride support OutFront Kalamazoo’s work providing vital programs, services, and resources to the LGBTQIA+ community all year long.

June 6 and 7 – Motor City Pride 2026: Motor City Pride is more than just a festival — it’s a vibrant celebration of music, talent and diversity. With four dynamic stages showcasing both local talent and world-renowned LGBTQIA+ artists, the entertainment lineup is as diverse as the community we represent.

June 13 – East Lansing Pride: Come celebrate PRIDE in the heart of downtown East Lansing! The fifth annual East Lansing PRIDE will take place along Albert Avenue between Abbot Road and M.A.C. Avenue.

June 20 and 21 – Grand Rapids Pride Festival: Celebrate the West Michigan 2-SLGBTQ+ community and support local businesses, organizations, and artists. You’ll find 150+ vendors, a beer garden (including non-alcoholic beverages), activities for all ages, food trucks, a sensory space, and local, statewide, and nationally recognized performers!

June 27 – Lansing Pride 2026: Lansing Pride is Mid-Michigan’s largest LGBTQ+ festival, celebrating visibility, inclusion, and community. The annual event brings together tens-of-thousands of attendees for a free full day of live entertainment, family-friendly activities, local vendors, food and beverage options, and a vibrant showcase of community partners.

Campus Events

June 5 – Copper Beech Tree 80th Birthday Party: The beloved Copper Beech Tree at the heart of the Department of Radiology’s Healing Gardens is turning 80 years old this year! Visit to celebrate this magnificent octogenarian tree while the gardens are in full bloom. There will be live music in the rose garden, family-friendly games and activities, and of course birthday cake! Plus, a special message from Radiology Department Chair, Dr. Mark DeLano.

June 10 – Move in the Garden: Need a midday recharge? This free outdoor movement program combines stretching, strengthening, flow, and relaxation movements to support overall mobility. Sessions meet most Wednesdays from June 10 to September 30, 2026 in the Beal Botanical Garden.

June 13 – Conjuring Kinship: Deciphering Octavia: Join Beal Botanical Garden and Dr. Kinitra Brooks in a community event diving deep into the concepts of hope, Afrofuturism, and conjure through Octavia Butler’s Kindred.

June 15 to 19 – MSU Juneteenth Celebration: This year marks the 6th annual Juneteenth Commemorative Celebration at Michigan State University! This year’s theme, Beyond Freedom: Building Futures, Protecting Our Past and Activating Change, aims to celebrate and recognize the contributions of past and contemporary artists, scientists and advocates who work tirelessly to center Black excellence in the American fabric. The Juneteenth events at MSU will include components focused on voting, entrepreneurship and storytelling. Events will run from June 15 through June 19.

June 28 – Music and the Garden Go Music Trio: The MSU College of Music and Beal Botanical Garden invite you to this year’s Music and the Garden series, an outdoor celebration of music, nature, and community.

Weekends in June – Abrams Planetarium: Chasing the Ghost Particles: At the heart of Antarctica, the IceCube detector uses elusive particles called neutrinos to explore the universe’s most extreme phenomena, including exploding stars and black holes. Through stunning simulations and a journey deep beneath the Antarctic ice, this show at the Abrams Planetarium demonstrates how scientists use these “ghost particles” to uncover secrets of the cosmos from one of the most remote places on Earth.

Learning Opportunities

June 10 – Women Talk Money: Deep dive on HSAs—help make them work for you: This webinar through Fidelity breaks down the ins and outs of how HSAs can be great for health care costs today and help strengthen your long-term financial picture, and show you how to help maximize your account at every stage of life.

June 10 – TIAA: Set Your Retirement Date: Understand your factors to get you to your goal: If you are starting to think seriously about retirement, this course is perfect for insights on how you can create your retirement vision, understand what’s ahead, estimate expenses and income, and complete your plan.

June 10 and 11 – Student Supervision Series: Hiring student employees benefits both the student and the department. This series walks you through student employment policies, required procedures, and online hiring processes while helping you set clear performance expectations and connect students’ academic interests to their work. You’ll also explore effective strategies for leading and motivating student employees.

June 16 and 17 – Crucial Conversations for Accountability: This two-day course helps participants build accountability skills that strengthen trust, improve performance, and increase team effectiveness.

June 18 – The Spartan Experience: This training is grounded in real MSU examples, team activities, and self-reflection. Whether you work in student services, facilities, finance, or academic support, you’ll walk away with tangible strategies to elevate your service mindset and make a positive impact, one interaction at a time.

June 24 – Creating and Sustaining a Positive Workplace: This course provides humorous insight into the seven habits of negativity, including tips to stop gossip, techniques for getting along with others, and strategies to reap the many benefits of a positive and engaged workforce.

June 25 – TIAA: Identity Theft: Safeguarding Your Finances: Whether it is a phishing email, fraudulent phone call, or fake social media profile, identity theft is a growing threat. In this webinar hosted by TIAA, you will learn common tactics used by identity thieves, steps to prevent identity theft, and what to do if your personal information is compromised.

June 25 – Identify and Maximize Your Strengths: Tap into your unique talents and complete the CliftonStrengths Assessment. Learn more about your natural patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving and how it applies to your role in the workplace. Use your research to express what you do best and grow your overall confidence.

Family-Friendly Events

June 6 – Family Day: SHINE: First Saturday of the month means Family Day at the MSU Broad Art Museum! This month, discover how light moves in art. Join in on making art that invites light to filter, bounce, and shine, inspired by the exhibition: Jan Tichy: Darkness.

Recurring Weekends – Toddler Time at Launch Lansing: Visit Launch Lansing Trampoline Park during select times to enjoy children’s music, visits from Joey the kangaroo, and a special toddler section with your little ones.

Greater Lansing Area Events

Various Dates in June – Lansing Lugnuts Home Game: Head to Jackson Field and “Go Nuts” cheering on the Lansing Lugnuts, where every game brings a fun and lively atmosphere. There’s always something exciting happening at the ballpark for fans of all ages.

June 4, 11, 18 and 25 – Summer Concerts on the Square: Summer is almost here, which means Summer Concerts on the Square in Charlotte! New bands will play recurring weekly on Thursdays until the end of August.

Recurring Tuesdays – DeWitt Farmers Market: The 2026 Downtown DeWitt Farmer’s Market is being held every Tuesday until October! Here you will find the freshest produce, locally farmed meats, fresh eggs, delicious baked goods, and locally produced foods.

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: Visit the Delhi Township Fire Department for one of Michigan’s premiere indoor farmers markets. The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods.

Saturdays in June – Meridian Farmers’ Market: The summer schedule is here for the Meridian Farmers Market! Stop by every Saturday this month for farm-fresh ingredients, specialty foods, handmade crafts and more.

Recurring Wednesdays – The Allen Farmer’s Market: Visit the Allen Farmers Market in Lansing for seasonal produce, artisan baked goods, gluten-free baked goods, pasture raised eggs, dry beans, fresh, delectable cheeses, hot and ready-to-eat foods, local meat and fish and fun activities.

a group of employees doing yoga in the beal botanical garden on MSU's campups.

Move More, Feel Better: Energize Your Workday 

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

For many of us, our jobs are built around screens, meetings, and long periods of sitting. While our brains may be active, sedentary behavior and inadequate levels of physical activity can negatively impact our health and well-being. According to the World Health Organization, “Regular physical activity is proven to help prevent and manage noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, hypertension, stroke, diabetes and several cancers. It also helps to maintain a healthy body weight and can improve mental health, quality of life and well-being” (WHO, 2026). Incorporating movement into your daily routine can help you wake up your muscles, sharpen your focus, and even boost your energy. The following tips and campus resources are available to help. 

  • MSU University Health and Wellbeing’s Move More @ Work campaign encourages “Spartans to engage in physical activity and movement throughout the workday” and they are offering the following activities for employees this summer:  
    • Register for Desk Decompress:  Every Thursday from 2 to 2:15 p.m. this summer through August 13. This virtual 15-minute class will stretch and strengthen your wrists, neck, spine, and shoulders, all from the comfort of your own desk! Movements can be done sitting or standing. 
    • Sign up to Move in The Garden: Most Wednesdays this summer, a certified instructor will lead you through low-impact exercises and movements designed to improve flexibility, mobility, strength, and balance while enjoying the fresh air and sounds of nature during a midday garden-based movement break. Bringing your own mat or towel is advised, as some movements will be on the ground.  
  • Try out a group fitness class! MSU faculty and staff can purchase a membership to access the many services provided at MSU Recreational Sports and Fitness, including swimming, group fitness classes, and much more. New this year, check out MSU’s new Student Recreation and Wellness Center, the largest of the four Recreational Centers on campus!  
  • One of the easiest ways to add exercise to your daily routine is to attach it to an activity or habit you perform already, such as your commute to work. MSU Bikes provides support with commuter resources to help you bike to work with confidence, including a 1-on-1 Bike Commuter Assistance service which helps you find the safest, lowest-stress route to and from campus to your neighborhood. MSU Bikes also rents bikes to departments for staff to use during the work day with their Department Fleet Services. Bikes are a great way to get around campus for meetings, lunches, errands, or a nice break! Save the hassle of traffic, offer a healthy alternative for your staff breaks/on-campus transportation, and avoid problems finding car parking by adding a bike to your department transportation fleet. If you’re working remotely, find several Greater Lansing area biking groups to join instead. The MSU Bikes Service Center also offers new and used bikes, rentals (long and short term), as well as a repair service   
  • Take a walk around campus! Check out the Campus Meditation Map to learn more about over 25 different landmarks across MSU’s campus. You can also follow the MSU Self-Guided Walking Tour to explore areas of campus you have yet to see while on a break. 

Sources:  

“Physical Activity.” World Health Organization, https://www.who.int/health-topics/physical-activity Accessed 12 May 2026. 

Opening image provided by MSU University Communications Photography and Videography.

May Events Round-Up

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

May Events Round-Up 

It is warming up this spring in East Lansing, and that means it is time for May events! This month holds many virtual and in-person opportunities in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out to celebrate the start of the new season.

Campus Events

Various dates in May: Abrams Planetarium: Black Holes: Discover the fascinating world of black holes and galaxy evolution in this engaging planetarium experience, where cutting-edge science meets stunning visuals. Learn how researchers combine observations, simulations, and innovative tools to explore black hole formation, presented in a way that’s both impressive and easy to understand. 

Various Dates in May: Home Baseball and Softball Games: Come cheer on the Michigan State Spartans Baseball and Softball teams at a home game this May! 

May 16 and 17: Annual Spring Arts & Crafts Show: Join UAB at the Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Show at the MSU Union Grounds (49 Abbot Rd). Enjoy one-of-a-kind, handmade products from hundreds of local artists and small businesses. 

May 27 – Beal Footprints: Beal as a Living Landscape: Join a guided tour of W. J. Beal Botanical Garden and explore its evolving landscape from pre-settlement days to its future vision. Led by Alan Prather, this talk highlights 150 years of changing relationships with the land and the garden’s enduring mission to serve the community. 

Learning Opportunities 

May 7: TIAA More Psychology: Beyond the Numbers: Money decisions are often driven less by logic and more by emotions, habits, and personal experiences. This webinar explores how mindset shapes financial behavior and offers practical insights to help you build confidence, understand spending patterns, and align your choices with long-term goals.

May 7 – Taming the Email Beast: Take control of your inbox in this virtual workshop designed to help professionals manage overwhelming email with a proven system for organization, prioritization, and reducing clutter. Learn strategies that work across platforms like Outlook and Gmail to boost productivity, improve communication, and feel more in control of your daily workflow.

May 12 – The Power of Habit: Learn how habits are created and how to replace undesirable habits with productive ones. You will learn how to spot your habit loop, turn bad days into good data, and create habits that get the results you want.

May 13: Women Talk Money: 6 steps to help maximize your retirement savings: Saving for retirement can be especially important for women due to unique financial challenges and longer life expectancies. This session provides a clear six-step approach to help you understand your options, build confidence, and maximize your retirement savings.

May 19 – Trauma Informed Leadership: Join the Trauma Services Training Network to learn the definitions of trauma, the signs and symptoms of trauma, and the ways that trauma may manifest in the workplace. Review the principles of trauma informed practices, with an emphasis on approaches for leadership, including practical, trauma-informed strategies for supervisors managing difficult situations.

May 19: TIAA Finance for New Grads: Starting your career is exciting, but building a strong financial foundation early is key to long-term success. This session covers essential skills like understanding job benefits, managing spending, choosing between pre-tax and Roth contributions, and building an emergency fund. 

May 19 and 20 – Spartan Excellence Learning Series: This two-day program equips employees with practical skills to improve processes, solve problems, and build a culture of continuous improvement aligned with the university’s mission and strategic goals. Through hands-on modules, learn Lean principles, structured problem-solving, and strategies to implement sustainable, collaborative changes that enhance efficiency and the overall Spartan experience.

(4 Day Program) May 20, May 27 June 3, and June 10 – Breaking Free From Stress: This course explores how thoughts and perceptions shape our experiences of stress, anxiety, and life challenges, both at work and at home. Participants learn practical principles for becoming less reactive, breaking unhelpful thought patterns, and building greater resilience, self-awareness, and steadiness through change.

May 21 – Everything DiSC Behavior Styles at Work: This course introduces Everything DiSC as a simple tool for understanding different behavioral styles and improving communication and working relationships. Participants complete required pre-work before attending the virtual session.

May 27: How a 529 can fit into your education savings strategy: This webinar explains how 529 plans work, who they’re for, and how they can support your education savings goals at any stage. It also covers investment options, contribution strategies, updated qualified expenses, and how a 529 fits into your broader plan for saving and investing for your children’s future.

Family-Friendly Events

Recurring weekly on Sunday, Friday, Saturday – Toddler Time at Launch Lansing: Visit Launch Lansing Trampoline Park during select times to enjoy children’s music, visits from Joey the kangaroo, and a special toddler section with your little ones.

May 2: Family Day: Imagine:  First Saturday means Family Day at the MSU Broad Art Museum! Make creative connections with exhibitions through free hands-on and interactive family fun throughout the museum. 

May 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 – Abrams Planetarium Family Show: What are Stars? Discover what we’re made of and where it all began in this immersive show at the Abrams Planetarium. Journey through our cosmic origins, from the formation of hydrogen to the creation of carbon and life’s essential molecules, narrated by Andy Serkis.

May 24 – World Turtle Day at the Potter Park Zoo: Celebrate World Turtle Day at Potter Park Zoo with a fun, family-friendly event featuring educational stations, interactive activities, and hands-on learning about turtles. Included with standard admission, this special day highlights the importance of protecting turtles and their role in our ecosystems.

Greater Lansing Area Events

Various Dates in May – Lansing Lugnuts Home Game: Head to Jackson Field and “Go Nuts” cheering on the Lansing Lugnuts, where every game brings a fun and lively atmosphere. There’s always something exciting happening at the ballpark for fans of all ages.

May 16 and 17 – East Lansing Art Festival: The East Lansing Art Festival celebrates over 60 years of bringing high-quality art to the streets of East Lansing. Its mission is to foster community while promoting appreciation for art, culture, and creativity throughout the greater Lansing region.

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: Visit the Delhi Township Fire Department for one of Michigan’s premiere indoor farmers markets. The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods. 

Saturdays in May – Meridian Farmers’ Market: The summer schedule is here for the Meridian Farmers Market! Stop by every Saturday in May for farm-fresh ingredients, specialty foods ,handmade crafts and more.

Recurring Wednesdays – The Allen Farmer’s Market: Visit the Allen Farmers Market in Lansing for seasonal produce, artisan baked goods, gluten-free baked goods, pasture raised eggs, dry beans, fresh, delectable cheeses, hot and ready-to-eat foods, local meat and fish and fun activities.